Liquid sealing box and liquid feeding method

Abstract

The present invention provides a liquid sealing box capable of suppressing the load of a pressing device and suppressing damage to the inner bottom surface of the liquid sealing box. The liquid sealing box (100) comprises: a liquid storage part (10) for storing liquid (90); a flow path (20) for the liquid (90) stored in the liquid storage part (10) to flow; and a liquid sealing part (30) for sealing the liquid (90) in the liquid storage part (10); wherein the liquid sealing part (30) comprises an outer peripheral part (33) and a central side low-strength part (31) on the central side relative to the outer peripheral part (33); when pressed, the central side low-strength part (31) breaks, so that the liquid (90) in the liquid storage part (10) can flow to the flow path (20).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid sealed box in which liquid is sealed and a liquid feeding method for transferring liquid in the liquid sealed box. Background Art

[0002] like Fig.31 As shown, Patent Document 1 discloses a microstructure including: a first hollow chamber 902 and a second hollow chamber 903 separated from each other by a partition element 901, a covering element 904 covering the first hollow chamber 902, a take-out chamber 905, and a pipe 906 connecting the second hollow chamber 903 and the take-out chamber 905. The first hollow chamber 902 is filled with a liquid.

[0003] When a force is applied to the covering element 904, the first end 907 of the partition element 901 breaks. The second end 908 of the partition element 901 forms a hinge region that can rotate. Since the first end 907 of the partition element 901 breaks, the liquid in the first hollow chamber 902 flows into the second hollow chamber 903. Due to the capillary force, the liquid is transported to the pipeline 906 and the extraction chamber 905.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-96866. Summary of the invention

[0007] Technical problem to be solved by the invention

[0008] In the microstructure of the above-mentioned patent document 1, the partition element 901 is pressed in the second hollow chamber 903 having a tiny space, so that the first end 907 of the partition element 901 is broken and the partition element 901 is unsealed. In order to effectively break the first end 907 of the partition element 901, the partition element 901 has flexibility, and therefore it is necessary to sufficiently increase the pressing depth of the pressing member for pressing the partition element 901. However, the second hollow chamber 903 having a tiny space is low in height, so the partition element 901 descends to the inner bottom surface of the second hollow chamber 903, and thus sometimes the partition element 901 comes into contact with the inner bottom surface of the second hollow chamber 903 (see Fig.31 dotted part of the image).

[0009] When the partition element 901 descends to the inner bottom surface of the second hollow chamber 903 and the first end of the partition element 901 contacts the inner bottom surface of the second hollow chamber 903 (see Fig.31 ), the partition element 901 cannot be pressed in further even if pressing force is applied, which may cause an increase in the load on the device applying the pressing force and damage to the inner bottom surface of the second hollow chamber 903.

[0010] An object of the present invention is to suppress the load of a pressing device and to suppress damage to the inner bottom surface of a liquid-tight box.

[0011] Technical means to solve technical problems

[0012] To achieve the above purpose, Figure 1 As shown, the liquid sealing box (100) of the present invention comprises: a liquid storage part (10) for storing liquid (90); a flow path (20) for the liquid (90) stored in the liquid storage part (10) to flow; and a liquid sealing part (30) for sealing the liquid (90) in the liquid storage part (10); wherein the liquid sealing part (30) comprises an outer peripheral part (33) and a central side low-strength part (31) on the central side relative to the outer peripheral part (33), and when pressed, the central side low-strength part (31) breaks, and the liquid (90) in the liquid storage part (10) can flow to the flow path (20).

[0013] In this specification, "low-strength portion" refers to a portion of the liquid sealing portion that has a lower mechanical strength than portions other than the low-strength portion. In addition, "low mechanical strength" refers to a property that is particularly easily broken by a pressing force.

[0014] In the liquid sealing box (100) of the present invention, as described above, after the liquid sealing part (30) is pressed, it breaks in a splitting manner to both sides with the low-strength part (31) on the central side of the liquid sealing part (30) as the boundary. Therefore, the two ends of the liquid sealing part (30) are respectively used as the center of rotation, and the radius (R) of the rotating part can be reduced. In this way, the radius (R) of the rotating part can be reduced, so that the pressing of the liquid sealing part (30) can be stopped before the liquid sealing part (30) contacts the inner bottom surface (61) of the liquid sealing box (100), or when the liquid sealing part (30) contacts the inner bottom surface (61), the increase in pressing force can be suppressed compared with the past. As a result, the load of the pressing device can be suppressed and the damage of the inner bottom surface (61) of the liquid sealing box (100) can be suppressed.

[0015] like Figure 1 As shown, the liquid delivery method of the present invention is a liquid delivery method for a liquid sealing box (100) including a liquid storage part (10) storing a liquid (90) and a liquid sealing part (30) sealing the liquid storage part (10), which includes the following steps: a step of pressing the central side low-strength part (31) of the liquid sealing part (30) to break it with the central side low-strength part (31) as the boundary; and a step of allowing the liquid (90) to flow from the liquid storage part (10) whose central side low-strength part (31) has been broken.

[0016] In the liquid delivery method of the present invention, similar to the above-mentioned invention, the liquid sealing part (30) can be pressed to break in two directions with the low-strength part (31) on the central side as the boundary. As a result, the radius (R) of the swirling part of the liquid sealing part (30) accompanying the pressing can be reduced. Thus, the radius (R) of the swirling part can be reduced, so that the pressing of the liquid sealing part (30) can be ended before the liquid sealing part (30) contacts the inner bottom surface (61) of the liquid sealing box (100), or when the liquid sealing part (30) contacts the inner bottom surface (61), the increase in the pressing force can be suppressed compared with the past. As a result, the load of the pressing device can be suppressed and the damage of the inner bottom surface (61) of the liquid sealing box (100) can be suppressed.

[0017] Effects of the Invention

[0018] The present invention can suppress the load of the pressing device and suppress the damage of the inner bottom surface of the liquid-tight box. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of a liquid sealed box, that is, a diagram used to respectively illustrate before opening (A), when opening (B), and after opening (C);

[0020] Figure 2 A flow chart to illustrate the method of liquid delivery;

[0021] Figure 3 An example diagram of a liquid sealing box when liquid is delivered by centrifugal force;

[0022] Figure 4 Schematic diagrams of structural examples (A) to (F) of the liquid sealing portion;

[0023] Figure 5 Schematic diagrams of other structural examples (A) to (E) of the liquid sealing portion;

[0024] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a first specific structural example of a liquid sealing portion;

[0025] Figure 7 To see from the back Figure 6 Top view of the liquid seal (A) and the pressure-bearing side Figure 6 A top view of the liquid sealing portion (B);

[0026] Figure 8 for Figure 6 A schematic side view of a liquid sealing portion;

[0027] Fig. 9 For along Figure 7 (A) Cross-sectional view along line 800-800;

[0028] Fig.10For along Figure 7 (A) Cross-sectional view along line 801-801;

[0029] Fig.11 is a schematic diagram of a second specific structural example of the liquid sealing portion;

[0030] Fig.12 To see from the back Fig.11 Top view of the liquid seal (A) and the pressure-bearing side Fig.11 A top view of the liquid sealing portion (B);

[0031] Fig.13 for Fig.11 A schematic side view of a liquid sealing portion;

[0032] Fig.14 For along Fig.12 (A) Cross-sectional view of line 802-802;

[0033] Fig.15 For along Fig.12 (A) Cross-sectional view along line 803-803;

[0034] Fig.16 A diagram showing a first structural example of a cross-sectional shape of a liquid sealing portion;

[0035] Fig.17 A diagram showing a second structural example of the cross-sectional shape of the liquid sealing portion;

[0036] Fig.18 A diagram showing a third structural example of the cross-sectional shape of the liquid sealing portion;

[0037] Fig.19 A top view of a specific structural example of a liquid sealing box;

[0038] Fig. 20 is an oblique view showing details of a detection device using a liquid sealing cartridge;

[0039] Fig.21 is an oblique view of the detection device in a closed state of the cover;

[0040] Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of the internal structure of the detection device;

[0041] Fig.23 is a diagram showing the positions of the pressing portion, the photographing portion, and the light detector relative to the box;

[0042] Fig.24 A block diagram showing the relationship between the various structural elements of the detection device and the control unit;

[0043] Fig.25 A flow chart for explaining the operation of the detection device;

[0044] Fig.26 A flow chart for explaining the liquid delivery process of the detection device;

[0045] Fig. 27 This is a schematic diagram of a state where a liquid sealing portion is arranged directly below the pressing portion;

[0046] Fig.28 A schematic diagram of a state in which a pressing member presses a liquid sealing portion;

[0047] Fig.29 A schematic diagram showing a state in which the pressing member releases the seal of the liquid sealing portion;

[0048] Fig.30 This is a schematic diagram of the state of liquid delivery after the seal is released;

[0049] Fig.31 It is a figure for explaining the conventional technology. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described based on the drawings.

[0051] (Overview of Liquid Sealed Box)

[0052] Reference Figure 1 The liquid sealing cartridge 100 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0053] The liquid sealed box 100 is a container having a space formed therein that can contain the liquid 90. The liquid sealed box 100 can seal the liquid 90 contained therein. The liquid sealed box 100 can release the seal of the liquid 90 contained therein by an operation from the outside of the box. By releasing the seal, the liquid 90 in the liquid sealed box 100 can be transferred to another part in the box or to the outside of the box.

[0054] The outer shape of the liquid-tight box 100 is not particularly limited. The liquid-tight box 100 has a plate shape, for example.

[0055] The liquid-tight box 100 includes at least one liquid storage portion 10 , at least one flow path 20 , and at least one liquid sealing portion 30 .

[0056] The liquid storage part 10 stores the liquid 90. That is, the liquid storage part 10 is a space having a volume capable of storing a certain amount of the liquid 90. The liquid storage part 10 is divided by an inner upper side surface, an inner bottom surface, and an inner side surface. The liquid storage part 10 stores the liquid 90 in advance. The liquid storage part 10 may be in an empty state when the liquid-tight box 100 is manufactured, and the liquid-tight box 100 may be filled with the liquid 90 by the user.

[0057] The flow path 20 allows the liquid 90 stored in the liquid storage section 10 to flow. The flow path 20 is a hollow tubular element through which the liquid 90 can flow. The flow path 20 is connected to the liquid storage section 10 at least when the seal of the liquid sealing box 100 is released. Before the seal is released, the flow path 20 can be separated from the liquid storage section 10 in a non-connected state by the liquid sealing section 30. The flow path 20 includes, for example, a first end connected to the liquid storage section 10 via the liquid sealing section 30, and a second end connected to a space that becomes a transfer destination of the liquid 90 or the outside of the liquid sealing box 100.

[0058] The liquid sealing portion 30 seals the liquid 90 in the liquid storage portion 10. The liquid sealing portion 30 prevents the liquid 90 from flowing from the liquid storage portion 10 into the flow path 20. For example, the liquid sealing portion 30 separates the liquid storage portion 10 from the flow path 20 in the connection portion between the liquid storage portion 10 and the flow path 20. One or more liquid sealing portions 30 are provided for one liquid storage portion 10.

[0059] The liquid sealing part 30 can be opened irreversibly. Specifically, the liquid sealing part 30 is pressed, and a part of the liquid sealing part 30 is broken due to the pressing force. The seal is released due to the break of the liquid sealing part 30. For example, the liquid 90 can flow through the break of the liquid sealing part 30. In this specification, the breaking of a part of the liquid sealing part 30 so that the liquid 90 in the liquid storage part 10 can flow is referred to as "opening".

[0060] The liquid sealing box 100 has a main body 50 forming these liquid storage parts 10, flow path 20 and liquid sealing parts 30. The main body 50 is made of, for example, a resin material. The resin material can be, for example, COP (Cyclo Olefin Polymer). The liquid storage part 10 and the flow path 20 are formed by a recess or groove formed in the main body 50. The recess or groove formed in the main body 50 can be covered by a base film 60, so that the liquid storage part 10 and the flow path 20 are constructed as the internal space of the liquid sealing box 100. The base film 60 is made of, for example, a resin material. The resin material can be, for example, COP (Cyclo Olefin Polymer). The base film 60 constitutes the inner bottom surface 61 of the liquid storage part 10. The outer peripheral portion 33 of the liquid sealing part 30 is supported by the main body 50.

[0061] exist Figure 1In the example, the liquid sealing box 100 also includes a cover part 40 opposite to the liquid sealing part 30. The cover part 40 covers the liquid sealing part 30. When the liquid sealing part 30 is unsealed, the cover part 40 prevents the liquid 90 from flowing out to the outside of the liquid sealing box 100. When the liquid sealing part 30 is unsealed, an external force is applied to the liquid sealing part 30 from the outside of the liquid sealing box 100 via the cover part 40. Therefore, the cover part 40 can be deformed by the external force, so that the pressing member 361 can press the liquid sealing part 30 via the cover part 40. The cover part 40 is, for example, a film-like member formed by an elastically deformable material such as an elastomer or rubber. The cover part 40 is, for example, a film formed by a polyurethane elastomer. When the main body 50 is elastically deformable, the liquid sealing part 30 can be pressed from the outside of the liquid sealing box 100 via the main body 50, so there is no need to provide a cover part 40 separately.

[0062] In order to unseal the liquid sealing part 30, a pressing force is applied to the liquid sealing part 30 from the outside of the liquid sealing box 100 through the pressing member 361. At this time, the pressing member 361 first presses the cover part 40 against the liquid sealing part 30 to elastically deform it. The pressing member 361 abuts against the liquid sealing part 30 via the cover part 40. The pressing member 361 moves in the direction of pressing into the liquid sealing part 30, destroying the liquid sealing part 30, thereby releasing the seal of the liquid sealing part 30. The pressing member 361 has a rod-like shape, for example, and is moved by a pressing device. The pressing device has a driving source such as a motor, a voice coil, a spring, a battery, etc. that moves the pressing member 361.

[0063] In this embodiment, the liquid sealing part 30 has an outer peripheral part 33 and a central low-strength part 31 at the central side relative to the outer peripheral part 33. When the liquid sealing part 30 is pressed, the central low-strength part 31 breaks, allowing the liquid 90 in the liquid storage part 10 to flow into the flow path 20.

[0064] Specifically, the liquid sealing part 30 includes a central low-strength part 31 and a base part 32, which is a part other than the low-strength part. The central low-strength part 31 has a lower mechanical strength than the base part 32. That is, when a pressing force for unsealing acts on the liquid sealing part 30, the central low-strength part 31 is more likely to break than the base part 32. The external force required to break the central low-strength part 31 is smaller than that of the base part 32.

[0065] for example Figure 1 As shown, the central low-strength portion 31 has a smaller thickness than the base portion 32. In addition, for example, the central low-strength portion 31 is made of a material having a lower mechanical strength than the constituent material of the base portion 32. For example, the interior of the central low-strength portion 31 is hollow, and the central low-strength portion 31 has a structure with a lower density than the base portion 32.

[0066] The central low-strength portion 31 is disposed at the central side of the liquid sealing portion 30 relative to the peripheral portion 33, and the base portion 32 is disposed on both sides of the central low-strength portion 31. That is, the base portion 32 is located between the central low-strength portion 31 and the peripheral portion 33. Figure 1 As shown in (A), after the liquid sealing part 30 is pressed through the cover part 40, Figure 1 As shown in (B), the central low-strength portion 31 is broken. The central low-strength portion 31 is broken, and the liquid sealing portion 30 is split with the central low-strength portion 31 on the central side as the boundary. That is, the central side ends of the base portion 32 on both sides of the central low-strength portion 31 are separated from each other. Due to the pressing force, the base portions 32 on both sides of the central low-strength portion 31 are pressed open in the direction of separation from each other like a double door.

[0067] like Figure 1 As shown in (C), after the pressing force is applied, a through hole TH is formed in the liquid sealing part 30 to connect the liquid storage part 10 to the outside of the liquid storage part 10. The sealing by the liquid sealing part 30 is released by forming the through hole TH. In this way, the liquid sealing part 30 can be broken by the central side low strength part 31, so that the liquid 90 in the liquid storage part 10 can flow to the flow path 20.

[0068] The base parts 32 on both sides of the central low-strength part 31 are pressed open by the pressing member 361, with the central low-strength part 31 as the boundary. The base parts 32 on both sides respectively rotate around the outer peripheral part 33 of the liquid sealing part 30 as the center. Therefore, the rotation radius R of the base part 32 is about half of the entire width W of the liquid sealing part 30. Therefore, compared with the case where the liquid sealing part 30 is rotated as a whole around one end of the liquid sealing part 30 of the entire width W as the center (that is, the case where the rotation radius is the entire width W, refer to Fig.31 ) compared to the liquid sealing portion 30, the pressing depth of the pressing member 361 required to release the seal of the liquid sealing portion 30 is smaller.

[0069] (Effect of liquid sealed box)

[0070] As described above, in the liquid sealing box 100 of the present embodiment, after the liquid sealing part 30 is pressed, it breaks in a splitting manner to both sides with the low-strength part 31 on the central side of the liquid sealing part 30 as the boundary. Therefore, the two ends of the liquid sealing part 30 are respectively used as the center of rotation, and the radius R of the rotating part can be reduced. In this way, the radius R of the rotating part can be reduced, so the pressing of the liquid sealing part 30 can be ended before the liquid sealing part 30 contacts the inner bottom surface 61 of the liquid sealing box 100, or when the liquid sealing part 30 contacts the inner bottom surface, the pressing force can be suppressed compared with the past. As a result, the load of the pressing device can be suppressed and the damage to the inner bottom surface of the liquid sealing box 100 can be suppressed.

[0071] In addition, in the structure including the cover part 40 facing the liquid sealing part 30, the liquid sealing part 30 can be opened without causing leakage by pressing the liquid sealing part 30 through the cover part 40 while keeping the cover part 40 covering the liquid sealing part 30. At this time, if the pressing depth is large during pressing, the cover part 40 may be damaged, but in the present embodiment, the pressing depth can be made very small during pressing, so that not only the inner bottom surface 61 but also the cover part 40 can be prevented from being damaged.

[0072] (Additional structure of liquid sealing box)

[0073] exist Figure 1 In the example of FIG. 1 , the liquid sealing portion 30 includes a side portion 32a adjacent to one side of the central low-strength portion 31 and another side portion 32b adjacent to the other side of the central low-strength portion 31 as viewed in the pressing direction. The side portion 32a and the other side portion 32b are part of the base portion 32.

[0074] like Figure 1 (B) and Figure 1 As shown in (C), one side portion 32a and the other side portion 32b are continuous from the outer peripheral portion 33 of the liquid sealing portion 30 to the central low-strength portion 31, and deform in the pressing direction due to the pressing. One side portion 32a and the other side portion 32b are not completely broken at the outer peripheral portion 33, but are plastically deformed in a spiral manner around the outer peripheral portion 33.

[0075] Thus, even if the central low-strength portion 31 is broken, one side portion 32a and the other side portion 32b are both maintained in a state of being connected to the outer peripheral portion 33 of the liquid sealing portion 30. Here, after the broken portion is separated from the liquid sealing portion 30, the separated portion falls off to the liquid storage portion 10 or the flow path 20, and may hinder the liquid feeding depending on the position of the fall. For this, it is possible to suppress the one side portion 32a and the other side portion 32b from being separated from the liquid sealing portion 30. In addition, in the liquid sealing box 100 of the present embodiment, as long as the one side portion 32a and the other side portion 32b are not completely separated, the one side portion 32a and the other side portion 32b may also be partially broken.

[0076] In addition, Figure 1 In the example of (B), the central low-strength portion 31 is broken by the pressure and is placed by at least one of the one side portion 32a and the other side portion 32b. Thus, not only the one side portion 32a and the other side portion 32b, but also the central low-strength portion 31 can be prevented from breaking and separating from the liquid sealing portion 30.

[0077] (Method of delivering liquid)

[0078] Next, the liquid feeding method of the present embodiment will be described. The liquid feeding method of the present embodiment is a liquid feeding method of a liquid sealing cartridge 100 including a liquid storage portion 10 storing a liquid 90 and a liquid sealing portion 30 sealing the liquid storage portion 10 .

[0079] like Figure 2 As shown, the liquid feeding method of this embodiment includes at least the following steps S1 and S2. (S1) Pressing the central low-strength portion 31 of the liquid sealing portion 30 to break the central low-strength portion 31 as a boundary. (S2) Allowing the liquid 90 to flow from the liquid storage portion 10 where the central low-strength portion 31 has been broken.

[0080] In step S1, the central low-strength portion 31 of the liquid sealing portion 30 is pressed by moving the pressing member 361. The central low-strength portion 31 is broken by the pressing. The liquid sealing portion 30 is split and broken with the central low-strength portion 31 as the boundary. Therefore, the base portions 32 on both sides of the central low-strength portion 31 are separated, and through holes TH are formed at the broken portions. Due to the pressing force, the base portions 32 on both sides of the central low-strength portion 31 are pressed open in directions away from each other like double doors. The details of step S1 are shown in FIG. Figure 1 The liquid-tight cartridge 100 is described above.

[0081] In step S2, an external force is applied to the liquid 90 in the liquid storage section 10, and the liquid 90 is caused to flow from the liquid storage section 10 where the central low-strength section 31 has been broken. The external force applied to the liquid 90 is not particularly limited. The external force applied to the liquid 90 may be, for example, gravity, pressure, centrifugal force, etc. The liquid 90 flows from the liquid storage section 10 to a position lower than the liquid storage section 10 in the liquid-sealed box 100 due to gravity, or flows from the liquid storage section 10 to the outside of the liquid-sealed box 100. For example, air pressure or water pressure is supplied to the liquid-sealed box 100 from an external pressure source, so that the liquid 90 flows from the liquid storage section 10 to any position.

[0082] exist Figure 3 In the example, the liquid storage part 10 is arranged at the center side of the liquid sealing box 100 with respect to the flow path 20. In the step S2 of flowing the liquid 90, the liquid sealing box 100 is rotated so that the liquid 90 in the liquid storage part 10 flows through the pressed center side low strength part 31 (refer to Figure 1 ) flows toward flow path 20.

[0083] That is, after the sealing is released in step S1, the liquid sealing cartridge 100 is rotated about the central axis 101 to apply centrifugal force to the liquid 90 in the liquid storage section 10. Thus, the liquid 90 moves from the liquid storage section 10 to the flow path 20 on the outer peripheral side.

[0084] (Effect of liquid delivery method)

[0085] In the liquid delivery method of the present embodiment, as described above, by pressing, the liquid sealing part 30 can be fractured in a splitting manner to both sides with the low-strength part 31 on the central side as the boundary. As a result, the radius of the swirling part of the liquid sealing part 30 accompanying the pressing can be reduced. Thus, the radius of the swirling part can be reduced, so that the pressing of the liquid sealing part 30 can be ended before the liquid sealing part 30 contacts the inner bottom surface 61 of the liquid sealing box 100, or when the liquid sealing part 30 contacts the inner bottom surface 61, the increase in the pressing force can be suppressed compared with the past. As a result, the load of the device performing the pressing can be suppressed and the damage to the inner bottom surface 61 of the liquid sealing box 100 can be suppressed.

[0086] In addition, according to Figure 3 In the technical solution of delivering liquid by rotation shown, the liquid 90 can be delivered by simply rotating the liquid sealing box 100.

[0087] (Structural example of a liquid-tight box)

[0088] exist Figure 3 In the example of FIG. 1 , the liquid sealing box 100 includes a disk-shaped main body 50 in which a liquid storage part 10, a flow path 20, and a liquid sealing part 30 are formed. The liquid storage part 10 is arranged at the center side of the main body 50 relative to the flow path 20. The liquid sealing box 100 rotates the main body 50 so that the liquid 90 in the liquid storage part 10 flows to the flow path 20. Thus, the liquid 90 can be sent by simply rotating the liquid sealing box 100.

[0089] The liquid storage part 10 is provided with a liquid seal part 30A on the outside in the radial direction and a liquid seal part 30B on the inside in the radial direction. The liquid seal part 30B on the inside in the radial direction is connected to the air hole 102. The liquid seal part 30A on the outside in the radial direction is connected to the flow path 20. By unsealing the liquid seal parts 30A and 30B, when the liquid is sent, the liquid 90 in the liquid storage part 10 flows into the flow path 20, and then the air flows into the liquid storage part 10 from the air hole 102. As a result, it is possible to avoid the inside of the liquid storage part 10 from becoming a negative pressure, which hinders the movement of the liquid 90.

[0090] In addition, the liquid sealing portion 30 is provided integrally with the liquid storage portion 10. Thus, the number of parts of the liquid sealing box 100 can be reduced compared to the case where the liquid sealing portion 30 and the liquid storage portion 10 are provided as non-integrated parts. In addition, no gap is formed between the parts, so that the liquid 90 can be reliably sealed.

[0091] (Structural example of liquid seal portion)

[0092] Next, refer to Figures 4 to 18 A configuration example of the liquid sealing portion 30 will be described.

[0093] 〈Planar shape and arrangement of low-strength portion〉

[0094] First, the shape and configuration examples of the low-strength portion on the surface of the liquid sealing portion 30 in a plan view are described. For ease of description, Figure 4 and Figure 5 In the figure, the low-strength portion is hatched, and the base portion 32 and one side portion 32a and the other side portion 32b, which are parts of the base portion 32, are shown as areas without hatching.

[0095] exist Figure 4 (A)~ Figure 4 In the example of (F), the central side low-strength portion 31 is provided at the central portion 34 of the liquid sealing portion 30. Thus, the liquid sealing portion 30 is broken in a manner of being divided into two on both sides with the central portion 34 as the boundary. Therefore, the radius of the swirling portion with the two ends of the liquid sealing portion 30 as the swirling center can be made uniform and minimized. Here, the central portion 34 is not limited to the technical solution provided at the center of the liquid sealing portion 30, as long as it is provided at the central side relative to the peripheral portion 33, there is no special limitation.

[0096] The base portion 32 is formed around the central low-strength portion 31. In order to fracture the central low-strength portion 31 in such a manner that one side portion 32a and the other side portion 32b are split in both directions with the central low-strength portion 31 as a boundary, the central low-strength portion 31 is not an isotropic shape such as a perfect circle, but preferably has a shape having directivity toward a specific direction.

[0097] exist Figure 4 (A)~ Figure 4 In the example of (F), the central low-strength portion 31 has at least one of a linear, rectangular, cross, and elliptical planar shape when viewed from the direction of being pressed. As a result, the central low-strength portion 31 is fractured in a certain direction, so the fracture direction of the central low-strength portion 31 can be easily controlled. As a result, it is possible to suppress fracture in an unexpected direction during opening, and to suppress the unevenness of the shape of the through hole TH formed by the fracture.

[0098] exist Figure 4 In (A), the central low-strength portion 31 has a straight or rectangular shape. The pressing area PA is pressed by the pressing member 361. The pressing area PA is an area where the pressing force from the pressing member 361 directly acts, and is an area that contacts the pressing member 361 through the cover portion 40 during pressing. At least a part of the central low-strength portion 31 is included in the pressing area PA. Due to the pressing force, one side portion 32a and the other side portion 32b are separated with the central low-strength portion 31 as a boundary, forming a through hole TH.

[0099] exist Figure 4In (B), the center low-strength portion 31 has a cross shape. When the pressing area PA is pressed, the cross-shaped center low-strength portion 31 moves Figure 4 (B) The longitudinal or transverse split fracture. Alternatively, the central low-strength portion 31 is cross-split fractured. When the central low-strength portion 31 is cross-split fractured, the base portion 32 at the four corners of the cross shape is separated into four split pieces, forming through holes TH.

[0100] exist Figure 4 In (C), the center low-strength portion 31 has an elliptical shape. Figure 4 (A) is the same, and the one side portion 32 a and the other side portion 32 b are separated from each other with the center side low-strength portion 31 as a boundary, and a through hole TH is formed.

[0101] exist Figure 4 In (A) to (C), the center low-strength portion 31 is located inside the pressing area PA. Figure 4 In (D), the central low-strength portion 31 extends from the central portion 34 of the liquid sealing portion 30 to the outside of the pressing area PA. The central low-strength portion 31 extends to the vicinity of the outer peripheral portion 33. As a result, the through hole TH can be formed larger, so when the liquid 90 is transferred, the amount of liquid 90 remaining due to the liquid sealing portion 30 becoming an obstacle after opening can be reduced. In addition, the larger the central low-strength portion 31, the smaller the pressing force can be used to open it, so the load on the device performing the pressing can be effectively suppressed.

[0102] exist Figure 4 In (E), the center-side low-strength portion 31 extends in the first direction A1 at the center portion 34 of the liquid sealing portion 30 . The first direction A1 is along the liquid feeding direction of the liquid 90 passing through the liquid sealing portion 30 .

[0103] As a result, the central low-strength portion 31 is broken along the liquid feeding direction. Therefore, the through hole TH can be formed to a position close to the end EP of the liquid sealing portion 30 in the liquid feeding direction. Therefore, when the liquid sealing portion 30 after opening forms a wall to form liquid accumulation, if the through hole TH is formed to a position close to the end EP, the amount of liquid accumulation can be reduced. That is, the residual amount of liquid 90 caused by the liquid sealing portion 30 can be reduced during liquid feeding, so it is preferred.

[0104] like Figure 4 As shown in (F), the first direction A2 of the center-side low-strength portion 31 may be different from the liquid supply direction.

[0105] like Figure 5 As shown in (A), the central low-strength portion 31 may be formed at a position eccentric from the central portion 34 of the liquid sealing portion 30 toward the outer peripheral portion 33 of the liquid sealing portion 30. Figure 5In (A), the center side low strength portion 31 is formed eccentrically toward the end EP side of the liquid sealing portion 30 in the liquid feeding direction. Figure 4 (E) is similar and is preferred because it can reduce the amount of liquid 90 remaining during liquid delivery.

[0106] like Figure 5 As shown in (B), the liquid sealing portion 30 may be provided with a central low-strength portion 31 - 1 and an outer peripheral low-strength portion 31 - 2 formed in the outer peripheral portion 33 and different from the central low-strength portion 31 - 1. Figure 5 In (B), it includes a central low-strength portion 31 - 1 and an outer peripheral low-strength portion 31 - 2 .

[0107] After the liquid sealing part 30 is pressed, the central low-strength part 31-1 and the peripheral low-strength part 31-2 are broken, and the width of the base part 32 between the central low-strength part 31-1 and the peripheral low-strength part 31-2 is also narrowed, so it is easy to break. Therefore, when opening, the through hole TH of the central low-strength part 31-1 and the through hole TH of the peripheral low-strength part 31-2 are connected to form a large through hole TH extending from the central part 34 of the liquid sealing part 30 to the peripheral part 33 along the liquid feeding direction. Therefore, the residual amount of liquid 90 caused by the liquid sealing part 30 after opening can be reduced.

[0108] In addition, in the state before breaking, the central low-strength portion 31-1 and the outer peripheral low-strength portion 31-2 are separated, and the base portion 32 is interposed therebetween, so that the mechanical strength of the central low-strength portion 31-1 and the outer peripheral low-strength portion 31-2 when not directly pressed can be ensured. Therefore, unexpected opening due to external impact or the like can be suppressed.

[0109] exist Figure 5 In the example of (C), the central low-strength portion 31-1 and the peripheral low-strength portion 31-2 are arranged in the liquid feeding direction. In this way, when opening, the through hole TH of the central low-strength portion 31-1 and the through hole TH of the peripheral low-strength portion 31-2 are connected to form a large through hole TH extending from the central portion 34 of the liquid sealing portion 30 to the peripheral portion 33 in the liquid feeding direction. Therefore, the residual amount of liquid 90 caused by the liquid sealing portion 30 after opening can be reduced.

[0110] exist Figure 5In the example of (D), the central side low-strength portion 31 is connected and extends from the central portion 34 to the peripheral portion 33 of the liquid sealing portion 30. That is, one central side low-strength portion 31 integrally includes a first portion 31A arranged in the central portion 34 and a second portion 31B along the peripheral portion 33 of the liquid sealing portion 30. Thus, a large through hole TH can also be formed, so the residual amount of the liquid 90 can be reduced. In addition, the central side low-strength portion 31 is continuous from one end to the other end of the liquid sealing portion 30, so the seal can be easily released with a small pressing force.

[0111] The low-strength portion may include a portion with relatively high strength and a portion with relatively low strength. Figure 5 In the example of (E), the central low-strength portion 31 - 1 has a lower strength than the peripheral low-strength portion 31 - 2. For example, the thickness of the central low-strength portion 31 - 1 is smaller than the thickness of the peripheral low-strength portion 31 - 2. Figure 5 In (E), the difference in the hatching indicates the difference in strength. The center low-strength portion 31 - 1 and the outer peripheral low-strength portion 31 - 2 are lower in strength than the base portion 32 .

[0112] By providing the strength distribution in this way, the fracture order can be controlled. Thus, even if the pressing position of the center low-strength portion 31-1 varies due to mechanical errors or dimensional errors of the liquid-tight box 100, the shapes of the formed through holes TH can be prevented from varying.

[0113] (First Specific Configuration Example of Liquid Sealing Section)

[0114] Figure 6 to Figure 10 One of the specific structural examples of the liquid sealing portion 30 is shown.

[0115] exist Figure 6 In the first specific structural example shown, the liquid sealing portion 30 has a circular planar shape. The central side low-strength portion 31-1 is formed in a cross shape at the central portion 34 of the liquid sealing portion 30. The peripheral side low-strength portion 31-2 is formed at the peripheral portion 33 of the liquid sealing portion 30. The peripheral side low-strength portion 31-2 is formed in a circular shape surrounding the central portion 34. The base portion 32 is formed so that the central side low-strength portion 31-1 is surrounded by the inner side of the peripheral side low-strength portion 31-2. That is, the portion between the central side low-strength portion 31-1 and the peripheral side low-strength portion 31-2 is the base portion 32.

[0116] like Fig. 9 , Fig.10 As shown, the liquid sealing portion 30 constitutes a part of the bottom surface of the flow path 20. The upper side opening of the flow path 20 is covered by a cover portion 40 provided on one side surface 51 of the main body portion 50.

[0117] like Figure 7 (B) and Figure 8As shown, the liquid sealing portion 30 has a cover portion 40 (see Fig. 9 , Fig.10 ) is pressed on a pressure-receiving surface 35a. The pressure-receiving surface 35a is the surface of the liquid sealing portion 30 on the cover portion 40 side. In addition, the liquid sealing portion 30 has a convex portion 35c pressed by the pressing member 361. The convex portion 35c protrudes toward the cover portion 40. The convex portion 35c is formed in the central portion 34 of the liquid sealing portion 30. The portion where the convex portion 35c is formed in the pressure-receiving surface 35a is the pressing area PA of the liquid sealing portion 30. The convex portion 35c protrudes toward the cover portion 40 side, thereby enabling the pressing member 361 to press the liquid sealing portion 30 via the cover portion 40 with a smaller pressing depth.

[0118] like Fig. 9 , Fig.10 As shown, the liquid sealing portion 30 constitutes a portion of the upper side of the liquid storage portion 10. The bottom opening of the liquid storage portion 10 is covered by a base film 60 provided on the other side surface 52 of the main body portion 50. Figure 7 (A) and Figure 8 As shown in FIG. 1 , a non-through recessed portion 36 is formed on the back surface 35b opposite to the pressure receiving surface 35a of the liquid sealing portion 30. Fig. 9 , Fig.10 As shown, in the liquid sealing portion 30 , the thickness is small at the portion where the recessed portion 36 is formed. The center-side low-strength portion 31 - 1 provided in the center portion 34 of the liquid sealing portion 30 is constituted by the recessed portion 36 .

[0119] In this way, the center side low strength portion 31-1 is composed of the recessed portion 36 formed on the back side of the pressure receiving surface 35a. Here, if the recessed portion 36 is on the pressure receiving surface 35a side (refer to Fig.16 ), when the central low-strength portion 31 breaks and the base portion 32 rotates, the corner portion 36a (refer to Fig.16 ) may hinder the turning. Fig.10 As shown, by providing the recessed portion 36 on the back side of the pressure receiving surface 35a, the corner portions 36a are rotated in a direction of separation, thereby preventing the corner portions 36a from contacting each other.

[0120] like Fig. 9 and Fig.10 As shown, the center low-strength portion 31-1 has a thickness t1. In the region where the protruding convex portion 35c is formed, the region where the concave portion 36 is not formed is the base portion 32. The base portion 32 has a thickness t2. The thickness t1 of the center low-strength portion 31 is smaller than the thickness t2 of the base portion 32.

[0121] exist Fig. 9 and Fig.10In the example of , the liquid sealing portion 30 has an outer peripheral side low strength portion 31 - 2 in the outer peripheral portion 33 . The outer peripheral side low strength portion 31 - 2 connects the outer peripheral portion 33 and the convex portion 35 c . The outer peripheral side low strength portion 31 - 2 has a thickness t3 . The thickness t3 is smaller than the thickness t2 of the base portion 32 .

[0122] In this way, the low-strength portion ( 31 - 1 , 31 - 2 ) has a smaller thickness than the adjacent region. Thus, the low-strength portion can be easily formed by only reducing the thickness of the liquid sealing portion 30 .

[0123] (Second Specific Configuration Example of Liquid Sealing Section)

[0124] Figure 11 to Figure 15 A second specific structural example of the liquid sealing portion 30 is shown.

[0125] exist Fig.11 In the second specific structural example shown, the liquid sealing portion 30 has a circular planar shape. The central side low-strength portion 31-1 has a straight line shape extending in the X direction. A pair of peripheral side low-strength portions 31-2 are formed in the peripheral portion 33. The pair of peripheral side low-strength portions 31-2 extend from the intersection of the extension line of the central side low-strength portion 31-1 and the peripheral portion 33 to both sides in the circumferential direction. The central side low-strength portion 31-1 and the pair of peripheral side low-strength portions 31-2 are closest in the X direction. The base portion 32 is continuous from the peripheral portion 33 of the liquid sealing portion 30 to the position of the central side low-strength portion 31-1 in the Y direction orthogonal to the X direction.

[0126] After the pressing area PA is pressed, the central low-strength portion 31-1 located in the pressing area PA is first broken, and then the pair of peripheral low-strength portions 31-2 are broken. In this process, the portion BA between the central low-strength portion 31-1 and the pair of peripheral low-strength portions 31-2 in the X direction is broken, and the broken portion of the central low-strength portion 31-1 and the broken portions of the pair of peripheral low-strength portions 31-2 are connected. As a result, after opening, the two parts of the one side portion 32a and the other side portion 32b of the base portion 32 are pressed apart in the Y direction.

[0127] In the second specific structural example, Fig.12 The structure of the pressure receiving surface 35a side of the liquid sealing portion 30 shown in (B) is similar to Figure 7 The same as the first specific structural example shown.

[0128] exist Fig.12 (A) and Fig.13 In the example of FIG. 1 , a linear recessed portion 36 is formed on the back surface 35 b of the liquid sealing portion 30 . The central low-strength portion 31 - 1 provided in the central portion 34 of the liquid sealing portion 30 is constituted by the recessed portion 36 .

[0129] A pair of recessed portions 37 are formed on the back surface 35b of the liquid sealing portion 30 along the outer peripheral portion 33 of the liquid sealing portion 30. The pair of recessed portions 37 extend in an arc shape. The pair of recessed portions 37 constitute a pair of outer peripheral low-strength portions 31-2 formed on the outer peripheral portion 33.

[0130] like Fig.14 and Fig.15 As shown, the center low-strength portion 31 - 1 has a thickness t5. The base portion 32 adjacent to the center low-strength portion 31 - 1 has a thickness t6. The thickness t5 of the center low-strength portion 31 - 1 is smaller than the thickness t6 of the base portion 32.

[0131] exist Fig.14 and Fig.15 In the example of , the outer peripheral low-strength portion 31-2 has a thickness t7. The base portion 32 adjacent to the outer peripheral low-strength portion 31-2 in the X direction has a thickness t8. The thickness t7 is smaller than the thickness t8. The thickness t8 is smaller than the thickness t6, exhibiting a certain degree of flexibility, and remains connected to the main body 50 when unsealed, playing a hinge role.

[0132] like Fig.15 As shown, the liquid sealing portion 30 is arranged on the upper side of the liquid storage portion 10, and the length R from the outer peripheral portion 33 of the liquid sealing portion 30 to the central low-strength portion 31-1 is smaller than the depth H from the liquid sealing portion 30 to the inner bottom surface 61 of the liquid storage portion 10.

[0133] Thus, even if the outer peripheral portion 33 is used as the center of rotation and the range of the length R is rotated to the maximum extent, it will not contact the inner bottom surface 61 of the liquid storage part 10. Therefore, damage to the inner bottom surface 61 of the liquid storage part 10 can be more reliably suppressed.

[0134] (Cross-sectional shape of low-strength portion)

[0135] In the first and second specific structural examples, the concave portion 36 formed by the back surface 35b of the liquid sealing portion 30 constitutes the center low-strength portion 31-1, but the present invention is not limited to this. Fig.16 In the embodiment, the center low-strength portion 31 is constituted by a recessed portion 36 formed on the pressure receiving surface 35 a of the liquid sealing portion 30 on the cover portion 40 side.

[0136] As described above, if the width of the recess 36 is narrow, when the one side portion 32a and the other side portion 32b rotate, the corners 36a of the recess 36 formed on the pressure receiving surface 35a may contact each other, which may hinder the rotation. Fig.16 As shown, the corner portion 36a is chamfered, or the width of the recess 36 is made sufficiently large.

[0137] exist Fig. 9 , Fig.10 , Fig.14 and Fig.15 In the example of FIG. 5 , the liquid sealing portion 30 has a plate-like shape parallel to the one side surface 51 and the other side surface 52 of the main body portion 50 . Fig.17 , an example in which the outer peripheral portion 33 of the liquid sealing portion 30 is inclined is shown.

[0138] exist Fig.17 In the embodiment, the outer peripheral portion 33 of the liquid sealing portion 30 is inclined toward the inner bottom surface 61 of the liquid sealing cartridge 100. Thus, the outer peripheral portion 33 of the liquid sealing portion 30 is inclined toward the inner side in the pressing direction in advance, so that it can be easily opened with a small pressing force (stroke).

[0139] In addition, Fig.18 In the embodiment, the pressure receiving surface 35a of the cover portion 40 of the liquid sealing portion 30 is inclined toward the inner bottom surface 61 of the liquid sealing box 100. The pressure receiving surface 35a of the liquid sealing portion 30 is inclined toward the inner bottom surface 61 as it moves from the outer peripheral portion 33 to the central portion 34. Fig.18 In the embodiment, the pressure receiving surface 35a is an inclined plane, but it may also be a curved surface. Thus, when pressing, the load can be concentrated on the central low-strength portion 31 of the central portion 34 of the liquid sealing portion 30. In addition, even if the pressing position of the pressing member 361 indicated by the arrow deviates slightly from the central portion 34 of the liquid sealing portion 30 due to errors, the inclined pressure receiving surface 35a can also function as a guide, so that the pressing force can be effectively applied to the central low-strength portion 31.

[0140] (Specific structural example of liquid sealing box)

[0141] Next, a specific configuration example of the liquid sealing cartridge 100 will be described.

[0142] Fig.19 The liquid sealed cartridge 100 shown is provided in a detection device 300 (see Fig. 20 ), is a box for detecting light generated from a measurement sample.

[0143] The substance to be tested is, for example, a substance contained in a sample collected from a subject, i.e., a human. The sample is blood (whole blood, serum, or plasma), urine, tissue fluid, or other liquid samples, or a sample obtained by subjecting the collected liquid sample to certain pretreatments. The sample contains liquid as a main component and may contain solid components such as cells. The substance to be tested may be, for example, proteins such as antigens or antibodies, peptides, cells and intracellular substances, nucleic acids such as DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid).

[0144] The measurement sample contains a test substance and a substance that emits light. The test substance itself can be a substance that emits light. The measurement sample can be a mixture of the test substance and a reagent. The reagent emits light, for example, according to the amount of the test substance. The light emission is, for example, chemiluminescence or fluorescence. The reagent contains, for example, a labeling substance that specifically binds to the test substance. The labeling substance can be a chemiluminescent substance or a fluorescent substance. For example, the labeling substance contains an enzyme, and the reagent contains a luminescent substrate that reacts with the enzyme. By detecting the light generated from the measurement sample, the presence or absence of the test substance corresponding to the measurement item, the amount or concentration of the test substance, and the size and shape of the particulate test substance can be measured. Depending on the measurement item, the type of reagent mixed into the measurement sample is different. According to each measurement item, there can be a plurality of modification examples of the liquid sealing box 100. The liquid sealing box 100 can measure a plurality of different measurement items.

[0145] The liquid sealing cartridge 100 is configured as a sample processing cartridge capable of performing a process for detecting a test substance in a sample by antigen-antibody reaction. Then, a reagent, namely a liquid 90 used for preparing a measurement sample is stored in the liquid storage portion 10 and sealed by the liquid sealing portions 30A and 30B.

[0146] exist Fig.19 In the example of FIG. 1 , the liquid-tight cartridge 100 has a flat plate shape. The liquid-tight cartridge 100 rotates around the rotation axis 321. Specifically, the liquid-tight cartridge 100 is a disk-shaped cartridge including a main body 50 having a disk shape.

[0147] exist Fig.19 In the example, the body 50 has a thickness that allows the heater 371 described later to easily adjust the temperature of the liquid sealing box 100. For example, the thickness of the body 50 is several mm, specifically about 1.2 mm. The diameter of the body 50 is several cm to more than ten cm, for example, about 12 cm.

[0148] Fig.19 The liquid-tight cartridge 100 shown has a processing area 110 for performing sample processing inside the cartridge. Fig.19 In the example of FIG. 1 , the liquid-tight box 100 has a processing area 110. Fig.19 In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the processing region 110 is formed as a region that expands in a fan shape within a range of about 120 degrees from the center of the main body 50 .

[0149] The liquid-tight cartridge 100 has a flat plate shape that rotates around the rotation axis 321. The liquid-tight cartridge 100 has a hole 55 that penetrates the main body 50 at the center of the main body 50. The liquid-tight cartridge 100 is disposed on the detection device 300 (see Fig. 20 ) and the center of hole 55 coincides with the center of rotation axis 321.

[0150] (Processing area)

[0151] The processing area 110 includes an inlet 111, a separation unit 112, a recovery unit 113, six chambers 121 to 126, flow paths 131 to 135, and seven liquid storage units 10. The seven liquid storage units 10 are provided with liquid sealing units 30A and 30B, respectively. A sample is injected into the inlet 111. The sample is a whole blood sample collected from a subject.

[0152] The separation part 112, the recovery part 113, and the chambers 121 to 126 are space parts capable of containing liquid. The separation part 112, the recovery part 113, and the chambers 121 to 126 are respectively divided by the wall part 53. The separation part 112, the recovery part 113, and the chambers 121 to 126 are arranged in the circumferential direction near the outer peripheral end of the main body 50.

[0153] The separation unit 112 is connected to the introduction port 111 via a flow path 131. The sample injected from the introduction port 111 is transferred to the separation unit 112 via the flow path 131 due to the centrifugal force generated by the rotation of the liquid sealing cartridge 100.

[0154] The recovery unit 113 is arranged radially outward relative to the separation unit 112, and is connected to the separation unit 112 via the flow path 132. The sample flowing into the separation unit 112 from the flow path 131 is accumulated in sequence from the radial outward due to the centrifugal force. After the sample accumulated in the separation unit 112 reaches the flow path 132, the amount of sample above this will move to the recovery unit 113 due to the action of the centrifugal force. As a result, the sample stored in the separation unit 112 is quantitatively fixed.

[0155] The sample in the separation section 112 is centrifugally separated into a liquid component, i.e., plasma, and a solid component, i.e., blood cells and other non-liquid components due to the centrifugal force generated by the rotation of the liquid sealing box 100. The plasma separated in the separation section 112 moves to the flow path 133 due to capillary action. The inner diameter of the flow path 133 is narrowed at the connection portion immediately before the chamber 121. The plasma fills the flow path 133 until immediately before the chamber 121.

[0156] The flow path 133 is connected to the chamber 121. When the flow path 133 is filled with plasma, the centrifugal force is applied by the rotation of the liquid-tight cartridge 100, and the plasma in the flow path 133 is transferred to the chamber 121. Due to the volume of the flow path 133, a certain amount of plasma to be transferred to the chamber 121 is quantitatively determined.

[0157] exist Fig.19In the structural example, the chambers 121 to 126 are arranged adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction and connected via a flow path 134 extending in the circumferential direction. As described later, between these chambers 121 to 126, the test substance is transferred one by one from one side (chamber 121 side) to the other side (chamber 126 side) via the flow path 134. In addition, the reagent stored in the corresponding liquid storage part 10 is transferred to each of the chambers 121 to 126 via the flow path 135.

[0158] The liquid containing the test substance is transferred to the chamber 121 via the flow path 133. The magnetic particles MP are enclosed in the chamber 121. In the chamber 121, the test substance contained in the sample is a complex with the magnetic particles MP. Therefore, the test substance bound to the magnetic particles MP is transferred to other chambers via the flow path 134 through the combination of the rotation of the liquid sealing box 100 and the magnetic force in the chamber 121 and thereafter.

[0159] The flow path 134 includes six radial regions 134a extending in the radial direction and an arc-shaped circumferential region 134b extending in the circumferential direction. The circumferential region 134b is connected to the six radial regions 134a. The six radial regions 134a are connected to the corresponding six chambers 121 to 126, respectively.

[0160] The seven liquid storage parts 10 are connected to the flow path 134 via the radial flow path 135. Five liquid storage parts 10 are provided, one for each of the chambers 121 to 125. Two liquid storage parts 10 are provided in the chamber 126. The seven liquid storage parts 10 are arranged radially with the corresponding chambers 121 to 126. A total of seven liquid storage parts 10 are arranged on the inner circumference of the liquid sealing box 100, and the chambers 121 to 126 are arranged on the outer circumference of the liquid sealing box 100.

[0161] The liquid storage part 10 stores liquid 90, i.e., reagent. The liquid storage part 10 has two liquid sealing parts 30A and 30B at both ends in the radial direction. After the liquid sealing parts 30A and 30B are opened, the reagent in the liquid storage part 10 can flow to the flow path 135. After the liquid sealing box 100 is rotated, the reagent moves to the corresponding chambers 121 to 126 due to centrifugal force.

[0162] In addition, each liquid storage part 10 stores a reagent capable of performing a single measurement in advance. That is, the liquid sealing cartridge 100 includes the liquid storage part 10 storing a reagent capable of performing a single measurement on a test substance.

[0163] In the liquid sealed box 100, after the test substance is loaded on the magnetic particles MP in the chamber 121, the test substance and the reagent are mixed in each chamber 122, 123, 124, and 125. The processing of the chambers 121 to 125 is set according to the test used to detect the test substance. For example, the test substance and the labeling substance are combined by the processing by the reagent. Finally, the magnetic particles MP loaded with the test substance and the labeling substance will move to the chamber 126. In the chamber 126, the preparation of the luminescent measurement sample is completed. The light detector 331 (refer to Fig. 22 ) detects light generated from the measurement sample.

[0164] In addition, Fig.19 In the example, one processing region 110 is formed in the main body 50. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and two or more processing regions 110 may be formed. For example, the main body 50 may be divided into three equal parts at 120 degrees to form three processing regions 110.

[0165] Furthermore, the number and shape of chambers and flow paths are not limited to Fig.19 The structure of each part of the processing area 110 is determined according to the content of the sample processing test performed in the processing area 110.

[0166] (Liquid storage part and liquid sealing part)

[0167] The detailed structures of the liquid storage section 10 and the liquid sealing section 30 are described. Fig.19 In the liquid-tight cartridge 100 shown, the liquid storage portion 10 is provided at the center of the main body 50. The liquid storage portion 10 extends linearly in the radial direction. The liquid sealing portion 30A and the liquid sealing portion 30B are provided at the outer end and the inner end of the liquid storage portion 10 in the radial direction, respectively.

[0168] The radially inner end of the liquid storage part 10 is connected to the air hole 115 via the liquid seal 30B. The air hole 115 opens to the outside of the liquid-tight box 100. The radially outer end of the liquid storage part 10 is connected to the flow path 135 via the liquid seal 30A.

[0169] The flow path 135 extends in the radial direction. The inner end of the flow path 135 in the radial direction is connected to one of the liquid storage parts 10 via the liquid sealing part 30A, and the outer end is connected to one of the chambers 121 to 126. In this way, one liquid storage part 10, one flow path 135, and one chamber are arranged in order from the inner circumference along the radial direction of the main body 50.

[0170] After the two liquid sealing parts 30A and 30B provided in one liquid storage part 10 are unsealed, the inner end of the liquid storage part 10 communicates with the outside of the liquid sealing box 100 , and the outer end communicates with the corresponding chamber via the flow path 135 .

[0171] Due to the centrifugal force caused by the rotation of the liquid-tight cartridge 100, the liquid 90 in the liquid storage section 10 flows out to the flow path 135 through the liquid sealing section 30A, and flows into the chamber through the flow path 135. When the liquid 90 in the liquid storage section 10 flows out, air outside the cartridge flows in through the air hole 115 and the liquid sealing section 30B.

[0172] The structure of the liquid sealing part 30A and the liquid sealing part 30B can be one of the various structural examples described above. For example, as an example, Figure 11 to Figure 15 The illustrated configuration example is used for the liquid sealing portion 30A and the liquid sealing portion 30B.

[0173] (Overview of the detection device)

[0174] Next, a specific configuration example of the detection device 300 that implements the detection method of the present embodiment will be described.

[0175] The detection device 300 uses a disk-shaped liquid-tight box 100 (see Fig.19 ) for determination. Figure 20 to Figure 24 In the example shown, the detection device 300 is an immunoassay device that uses the liquid-tight cartridge 100 to detect a test substance in a sample by utilizing an antigen-antibody reaction, and measures the test substance based on the detection result.

[0176] exist Fig. 20 and Fig.21 In the structural example, the detection device 300 has a housing 310 that can accommodate the liquid-tight cartridge 100.

[0177] The housing 310 is composed of a box-shaped member having an internal space of a certain volume, a frame, an outer plate, etc. The housing 310 has a small box shape that can be placed on a table.

[0178] The housing 310 includes a base portion 311 and a cover portion 312. A placement portion 313 for placing the liquid-tight cartridge 100 is provided on the upper side of the base portion 311. The cover portion 312 can be rotated up and down relative to the base portion 311 and can be opened and closed. Fig. 20 The state of the open configuration section 313 shown and Fig.21 The state of the cover configuration unit 313 is shown.

[0179] In addition, as a method of setting up the box, in addition to the method of placing the open cover portion 312 on the configuration portion 313, a slot-type sheet-entry method of inserting the liquid-sealed box 100 from an insertion port formed in the shell 310, or a tray-type sheet-entry method of placing the liquid-sealed box 100 on a tray that moves inside and outside the shell 310 can also be used.

[0180] like Fig. 22 As shown, the detection device 300 includes a rotating mechanism 320, a measuring unit 330, a photographing unit 340, and an illuminating unit 341. In addition, the detection device 300 includes a magnet driving unit 350, a pressing unit 360, a heater 371, a temperature sensor 372, and a clamp 373. The above components are housed in the housing 310.

[0181] A support member 314 that supports the liquid sealing cartridge 100 from below is disposed in the placement portion 313. The support member 314 is constituted by, for example, a turntable and is provided at the upper end of the rotation shaft 321 of the rotation mechanism 320. The support member 314 supports the liquid sealing cartridge 100 at a predetermined relative rotation angle.

[0182] The clamper 373 rotatably supports the center portion of the upper side surface of the liquid-tight cartridge 100 disposed on the supporting member 314 when the cover 312 is closed.

[0183] The rotating mechanism 320 includes a rotating shaft 321 and a driving unit 322 such as an electric motor. The rotating mechanism 320 drives the driving unit 322 to rotate the liquid sealing box 100 provided on the supporting member 314 around the rotating shaft 321. The rotating mechanism 320 includes an encoder 323 for detecting the rotation angle of the driving unit 322 and an origin sensor 324 for detecting the origin position of the rotation angle. By driving the driving unit 322 based on the detection angle of the encoder 323 with the detection position detected by the origin sensor 324 as a reference, the liquid sealing box 100 can be moved to any rotation position.

[0184] The rotating mechanism 320 sets the liquid sealing cartridge 100 via a rotating shaft 321. The rotating shaft 321 is oriented in the vertical direction, for example, when the detection device 300 is installed. The liquid sealing cartridge 100 is supported by the rotating mechanism 320 in a posture along the horizontal direction.

[0185] The driving unit 322 rotates the rotating shaft 321 around the axis, and thus the liquid sealing box 100 rotates around the rotating shaft 321. As a result, the chambers 121 to 126 of the liquid sealing box 100 and the liquid storage unit 10 move in the circumferential direction around the rotating shaft 321 on a circumferential track having a rotation radius corresponding to the radial distance from each configuration position to the rotating shaft 321.

[0186] The magnet driving unit 350 has a magnet 351 and has a function of moving the magnetic particles MP inside the liquid-sealed box 100 in the radial direction. The magnet driving unit 350 is arranged below the arrangement unit 313 and moves the magnet 351 in the radial direction. The magnet driving unit 350 moves the magnet 351 in a direction close to or away from the liquid-sealed box 100. When the magnet 351 approaches the liquid-sealed box 100, the magnetic particles MP in the liquid-sealed box 100 are gathered due to the magnetic force, and when the magnet 351 moves away from the liquid-sealed box 100, the magnetic particles MP are released from the gathering due to the magnetic force.

[0187] The pressing portion 360 includes a pressing member 361 and a pressing driving portion 362 that moves the pressing member 361 in the up-down direction. The pressing member 361 is a rod-shaped pin member extending in the up-down direction, and has an outer diameter corresponding to the pressing area PA of the liquid sealing portion 30A, the liquid sealing portion 30B. The pressing driving portion 362 is composed of a combination of a driving source such as an electric motor and a cam mechanism that converts the rotation of the driving source into up-down movement. Two pressing portions 360 are provided so that the liquid sealing portions 30A and the liquid sealing portions 30B provided at two locations for each liquid storage portion can be unsealed. Fig.23 As shown, in the plan view, the distances between the two pressing portions 360 and the rotation axis 321 are substantially the same as the distances between the two liquid sealing portions 30A and 30B provided in the liquid storage portion 10 and the rotation axis 321 .

[0188] The pressing portion 360 moves the pressing member 361 downward from the upper side of the liquid-tight box 100 disposed in the disposition portion 313 toward the liquid-tight box 100 to abut against the liquid-tight box 100. The pressing portion 360 presses the liquid-tight portion 30A and the liquid-tight portion 30B via the cover portion 40 through the pressing member 361. The pressing portion 360 releases the seal of the liquid-tight portion 30A and the liquid-tight portion 30B in the liquid-tight box 100 by pressing. After opening, the pressing portion 360 separates the pressing member 361 upward from the liquid-tight box 100 and moves it to a non-contact retreat position.

[0189] The heater 371 is respectively provided at a position immediately below the liquid-tight box 100 disposed in the arrangement portion 313 and a position immediately above the liquid-tight box 100. The heater 371 heats the sample contained in the liquid-tight box 100 to a certain reaction temperature to promote the reaction between the sample and the reagent. The temperature sensor 372 detects the temperature of the liquid-tight box 100 by infrared rays.

[0190] The measuring unit 330 includes a photodetector 331 at a position opposite to the liquid-tight cartridge 100 disposed in the disposition unit 313 via an opening formed in the base unit 311. The photodetector 331 detects the movement of the liquid-tight cartridge 100 from the disposition unit 313 to the detection position 332 (see Fig.23) is generated by the measurement sample. A pulse waveform corresponding to the light reception of photons, i.e., photons, is output through the photodetector 331. The measurement unit 330 has a circuit inside, and counts photons at fixed intervals based on the output signal of the photodetector 331, and outputs the count value.

[0191] The light detector 331 is disposed at a position immediately below the liquid-tight box 100 disposed in the disposition portion 313. Fig.23 As shown, the rotating mechanism 320 rotates the liquid-tight cartridge 100 about the rotating shaft 321, thereby arranging the chamber 126 at a detection position 332 immediately above the photodetector 331. Thus, the measuring unit 330 detects light generated in the chamber 126 through the photodetector 331.

[0192] The photographing unit 340 is opposite to the upper side of the liquid-tight box 100 disposed on the supporting member 314, and acquires an image of the liquid-tight box 100. It is possible to confirm whether the internal processing of the liquid-tight box 100 is properly performed through the acquired image. The photographing unit 340 includes, for example, a CCD image sensor, a CMOS image sensor, etc. The lighting unit 341 is composed of, for example, a light-emitting diode, and emits lighting light during photographing.

[0193] The imaging unit 340 directly faces the upper side of the liquid-tight cartridge 100 via the hole provided in the cover 312. The lighting unit 341 directly faces the upper side of the liquid-tight cartridge 100 via the hole provided in the cover 312. The imaging range 342 of the imaging unit 340 (see Fig.23 ) is set so that when the liquid sealing box 100 arranged in the arrangement part 313 rotates, the chambers 121 to 126, the passages 141 to 145, etc. partially or entirely pass through. The imaging part 340 acquires an image of the liquid and magnetic particles MP inside the liquid sealing box 100 using illumination light.

[0194] In addition, if Fig.23 As shown, the photographing unit 340 photographs the identifier 400 provided on the upper side of the liquid sealing box 100. The identifier 400 is an information recording medium such as a barcode or a two-dimensional code that can be read from an image. The rotating mechanism 320 rotates the liquid sealing box 100 so that the identifier 400 is located within the photographing range 342. The identifier records information for identifying the measurement item, information related to the reagent, information for identifying the liquid sealing box 100, and the like.

[0195] also, Fig. 22 The detection device 300 shown has an operation unit 374 for receiving a user's operation when opening the cover 312, a sensor unit 375 for sensing the opening and closing of the cover 312, and a locking mechanism 376 for engaging with and locking the cover 312 in a closed state.

[0196] Fig.24The block diagram shows Fig. 22 The relationship between the components of the detection device 300 and the control unit 380 that controls them through control signals is shown.

[0197] The detection device 300 has a control unit 380. The control unit 380 includes, for example, a processor and a memory. The processor is composed of, for example, a CPU, an MPU, etc. The memory is composed of, for example, a ROM and a RAM, etc. The control unit 380 receives signals from each unit of the detection device 300 and controls each unit of the detection device 300.

[0198] The detection device 300 includes a storage unit 381. The measurement result data is stored in the storage unit 381. The storage unit 381 is composed of, for example, a flash memory, a hard disk, or the like.

[0199] The detection device 300 has a communication unit 382. The communication unit 382 can send information to an external device and can receive information from an external device. The communication unit 382 includes, for example, a communication module, an interface for external connection, etc. The communication unit 382 can communicate with a terminal that can communicate with the detection device 300 and communicate with a server via a network through wired or wireless communication. Through communication, data related to measurement processing such as logs including measurement result data, acquisition of calibration curves, etc. can be sent. Terminals include, for example, portable information terminals such as tablet terminals, smart phones, and PCs (personal computers). The control unit 380 can accept user operation inputs via a user interface displayed on the terminal.

[0200] (Description of the operation of the detection device)

[0201] Next, refer to Fig.25 The operation of the detection device 300 is described. In the following description, the structure of the detection device 300 is referred to as Fig. 22 and Fig.23 The structure of the liquid sealing box 100 is shown in FIG. Fig.19 .

[0202] First, as a preparatory operation, the user injects a blood sample collected from a subject into the inlet 111 of the liquid sealed box 100. The user injects the sample to be measured into the inlet 111. As an example of a measurement item of the liquid sealed box 100, a measurement example of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) is shown. The substance to be tested in the blood sample includes an antigen. The antigen is hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). The measurement item can be prostate specific antigen (PSA), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroid hormone (FT4), etc.

[0203] In the liquid sealed box 100, the liquid storage part 10 located in the radial direction of the chamber 121 stores the R1 reagent. The chamber 121 stores the R2 reagent containing the magnetic particles MP. The liquid storage part 10 located in the radial direction of the chamber 122 stores the R3 reagent. The liquid storage parts 10 located in the radial direction of the chambers 123 to 125 store the cleaning liquid. The liquid storage part 10 located in the radial direction of the chamber 126 stores the R4 reagent. The other liquid storage part 10 located in the radial direction of the chamber 126 stores the R5 reagent.

[0204] exist Fig.25 In step S11, the control unit 380 executes an initial operation to start measurement.

[0205] Specifically, the control unit 380 senses that the cover 312 is closed based on a signal from the sensor 375. The control unit 380 performs a reading operation of the identifier 400. The imaging unit 340 images the identifier 400, thereby the control unit 380 acquires various information used for measurement. In addition, the control unit 380 acquires the rotational positions of the seven pairs of liquid seals 30A and 30B provided in the seven liquid storage units 10, each chamber 121 to 126, based on the origin position detected by the origin sensor 324 and the read position of the identifier 400.

[0206] The control unit 380 starts the sample processing operation performed by the detection device 300 in step S12 and thereafter. In addition, each time each step is performed, the control unit 380 makes the place where the sample processing is performed be located in the imaging range 342 of the imaging unit 340 through the rotation mechanism 320, and causes the imaging unit 340 to take an image. The control unit 380 monitors whether the sample processing is performed normally based on the image captured by the imaging unit 340. In addition, if it is not performed normally, the control unit 380 will perform a certain error processing, but the description of which is omitted here.

[0207] In step S12, the control unit 380 implements a process of separating the sample into a liquid component and a solid component. The control unit 380 rotates the liquid sealing box 100 at a high speed through the rotating mechanism 320, and moves the sample from the flow path 131 to the separation unit 112 by centrifugal force. At this time, the excess sample exceeding a certain amount moves to the recovery unit 113. In addition, in the separation unit 112, the sample is separated into plasma, i.e., a liquid component, and solid components such as blood cells by centrifugal force. The separated plasma moves into the flow path 133 and fills the flow path 133.

[0208] In step S13, the control unit 380 transfers the plasma and the reagent to the chamber. Fig.26Steps S31 to S33 are performed, whereby the liquid sealing parts 30A and 30B of the six liquid storage parts 10 are unsealed in sequence by the pressing part 360, and the liquid sealing box 100 is rotated, so that the liquid 90 contained in the six liquid storage parts 10 located in the radial direction of the chambers 121 to 126 is transferred to the chambers 121 to 126 via the flow path 135. In addition, by the rotation of the liquid sealing box 100, the plasma in the flow path 133 is transferred to the chamber 121. The liquid 90 transferred from the six liquid storage parts 10 is R1 reagent, R2 reagent, R3 reagent, cleaning solution, and R4 reagent. The details of steps S31 to S33 will be described later.

[0209] Thus, the R1 reagent and the plasma are transferred to the chamber 121, and the plasma, the R1 reagent, and the R2 reagent are mixed in the chamber 121. The R3 reagent is transferred to the chamber 122. The cleaning solution is transferred to the chambers 123 to 125. The R4 reagent is transferred to the chamber 126.

[0210] After the reagent transfer in step S12 is completed, the control unit 380 further performs a stirring process. Specifically, the control unit 380 drives the rotating mechanism 320 to rotate in a certain direction while switching between two different rotation speeds at a certain time interval. As a result, the liquid in the chambers 121 to 126 is stirred. The stirring process is not only performed in step S13, but also at the end of steps S14 to S19.

[0211] Here, the R1 reagent contains a capturing substance that binds to the substance to be tested. The capturing substance, for example, contains an antibody that binds to the substance to be tested. The antibody is, for example, a biotin-bound HBs monoclonal antibody. The R2 reagent contains magnetic particles MP. The magnetic particles MP are, for example, streptavidin-bound magnetic particles whose surfaces are coated with avidin. In step S13, the plasma, the R1 reagent, and the R2 reagent are mixed and stirred, and the substance to be tested and the R1 reagent are bound due to the antigen-antibody reaction. Then, through the reaction between the antigen-antibody reactant and the magnetic particles MP, the substance to be tested that is bound to the capturing substance of the R1 reagent is bound to the magnetic particles MP via the capturing substance. In this way, a complex in which the substance to be tested and the magnetic particles MP are bound is generated.

[0212] Next, in step S14 , the control unit 380 transfers the compound in the chamber 121 from the chamber 121 to the chamber 122 .

[0213] When transferring the compound, the control unit 380 drives the magnet driving unit 350 to move the magnet 351 close to the liquid sealing box 100 to collect the compound diffused in the chamber 121. The control unit 380 combines the radial movement of the magnet 351 caused by the driving of the magnet driving unit 350 and the circumferential movement of the liquid sealing box 100 caused by the rotating mechanism 320 to move the compound along the flow path 134. That is, the control unit 380 moves the compound from the chamber 121 to the liquid sealing box 100 in a radial direction. Fig.23 The composite material is moved to chamber 122 in the order of radially inner movement of channel PT1, circumferential movement of channel PT2, and radially outer movement of channel PT3. The control unit 380 performs stirring after the composite material is moved. In addition, the composite material is moved to each of chambers 123 to 126 in the same manner, so detailed description is omitted.

[0214] By transferring the complex to chamber 122, the complex generated in chamber 121 is mixed with the R3 reagent in chamber 122. Here, the R3 reagent contains a labeling substance. The labeling substance contains a capture substance that specifically binds to the substance to be tested and a label. For example, the labeling substance is a labeled antibody using an antibody as a capture substance. In step S14, the complex generated in chamber 121 is mixed with the R3 reagent, and after stirring, the complex generated in chamber 121 reacts with the labeled antibody contained in the R3 reagent. In this way, a complex in which the substance to be tested, the capture antibody, the magnetic particles MP, and the labeled antibody are bound is generated in chamber 122.

[0215] In step S15, the control unit 380 transfers the complex in the chamber 122 from the chamber 122 to the chamber 123. Thus, in the chamber 123, the complex generated in the chamber 122 and the cleaning liquid are mixed in the chamber 123. In step S15, after the stirring process is performed, the complex and the unreacted substances are separated in the chamber 123. That is, in the chamber 123, the unreacted substances are removed by cleaning.

[0216] In step S16, the control unit 380 transfers the complex in the chamber 123 from the chamber 123 to the chamber 124. Thus, the complex produced in the chamber 122 and the cleaning liquid are mixed in the chamber 124. In the chamber 124, unreacted substances are also removed by cleaning.

[0217] In step S17, the control unit 380 transfers the complex in the chamber 124 from the chamber 124 to the chamber 125. Thus, the complex produced in the chamber 122 and the cleaning liquid are mixed in the chamber 125. In the chamber 125, unreacted substances are also removed by cleaning.

[0218] In step S18, the control unit 380 transfers the complex in the chamber 125 from the chamber 125 to the chamber 126. Thus, in the chamber 126, the complex generated in the chamber 122 and the R4 reagent are mixed. Here, the R4 reagent is a reagent for dispersing the complex generated in the chamber 122. The R4 reagent is, for example, a buffer solution. In step S18, after the stirring treatment, the complex generated in the chamber 122 is dispersed in the R4 reagent in the chamber 126.

[0219] In step S19, the control unit 380 transfers the R5 reagent to the chamber 126. Specifically, the control unit 380 executes Fig.26The steps S31 to S33 are performed to release the seal of the liquid sealing part 30A and the liquid sealing part 30B of the liquid storage part 10, and the R5 reagent stored in the liquid storage part 10 is transferred to the chamber 126 by the rotation of the liquid sealing box 100. Thus, in the chamber 126, the R5 reagent is further mixed with the mixed solution generated in step S18.

[0220] Here, the R5 reagent contains a luminescent substrate that generates light by reacting with the labeled antibody bound to the complex. In step S19, the mixed solution generated in step S18 is mixed with the additionally transferred R5 reagent and stirred to prepare a measurement sample. The labeled substance bound to the complex reacts with the luminescent substrate, thereby measuring the chemiluminescence of the measurement sample.

[0221] In step S20, the control unit 380 positions the chamber 126 at the detection position 332 immediately above the photodetector 331 by means of the rotation mechanism 320. The photodetector 331 detects light emitted from the chamber 126.

[0222] In step S21, the control unit 380 performs an immune-related measurement process based on the light detected by the photodetector 331. The measurement unit 330 counts photons and outputs the count value. The control unit 380 measures the presence and amount of the test substance based on the count value output from the measurement unit 330 and the calibration curve, and generates a measurement result.

[0223] After obtaining the measurement result, in step S22, the control unit 380 records the measurement result data in the storage unit 381. In addition, the control unit 380 transmits the measurement result data to the terminal or the server via the communication unit 382.

[0224] The measurement operation of the detection device 300 is completed through the above.

[0225] (liquid delivery process)

[0226] Next, refer to Fig.26 The liquid supply process performed by the detection device 300 will be described. Fig.26 The liquid delivery process Fig.25 The steps S13 and S19 are performed. Fig.26 The liquid delivery process is performed by the liquid delivery method of this embodiment.

[0227] The liquid supply method of this embodiment includes a step S31 before the step S32 of pressing the central side low-strength part 31, and the step S31 moves at least one of the liquid storage part 10 and the main body 50 forming the liquid sealing part 30A and the liquid sealing part 30B and the pressing member 361 pressing the liquid sealing part 30A and the liquid sealing part 30B, so that the pressing positions for the liquid sealing part 30A and the liquid sealing part 30B correspond.

[0228] This makes it possible to more reliably press the central low-strength portion 31 of the liquid seal 30A and the liquid seal 30B. The pressing force is directly applied to the central low-strength portion 31, so that the liquid seal 30A and the liquid seal 30B can be opened with a smaller load (pressing force).

[0229] Specifically, in step S31 of making the pressing position correspond, the main body 50 is moved so that the pressing member 361 makes the pressing position corresponding to the central low-strength portion 31. That is, the control unit 380 drives the rotating mechanism 320 to rotate the liquid sealing box 100, as shown in FIG. Fig. 27 As shown, the liquid sealing portion 30A and the liquid sealing portion 30B arranged in the radial direction are located immediately below the two pressing members 361 .

[0230] Thus, the liquid sealing cartridge 100 is moved relative to the pressing member 361, so that the pressing device can be fixed. Compared with the technical solution of moving the pressing device, the load problem during pressing can be easily solved.

[0231] Next, in step S32, the control unit 380 lowers the two pressing units 360 to press the liquid sealing unit 30A and the liquid sealing unit 30B. The pressing opens the liquid sealing unit 30A and the liquid sealing unit 30B. Fig.28 As shown, the pressing member 361 contacts the pressure receiving surfaces 35 a of the liquid sealing portions 30A and 30B through the cover portion 40 while elastically deforming the cover portion 40 .

[0232] like Fig.28 As shown, in step S32 of pressing the center low-strength portion 31 , the vicinity of the center portion 34 of the liquid sealing portions 30A and 30B is pressed by the pin-shaped pressing member 361 via the cover portion 40 facing the liquid sealing portions 30A and 30B.

[0233] Thus, while the cover 40 is kept covered, the liquid seal 30A and the liquid seal 30B are pressed through the cover 40, so that the liquid seal 30A and the liquid seal 30B can be opened without leakage. At this time, if the pressing depth is large, the cover 40 may be damaged, but in this embodiment, the pressing depth can be made very small, so that not only the inner bottom surface 61 but also the cover 40 can be suppressed from being damaged.

[0234] In step S32, the control unit 380 further drives the pressing unit 360 to apply a pressing force to the liquid sealing unit 30A and the liquid sealing unit 30B through the pressing member 361. Fig.29As shown, the liquid sealing parts 30A and 30B are broken with the central low-strength part 31 as the boundary. Then, in step S32 of pressing the central low-strength part 31, the one side part 32a on one side and the other side part 32b on the other side are deformed in the pressing direction with respect to the central low-strength part 31. The one side part 32a and the other side part 32b rotate in the direction of separation from each other, and the through hole TH is pressed open.

[0235] Thus, the central low-strength portion 31 can be broken to form a through hole TH, and the one side portion 32a and the other side portion 32b can be deformed to open the through hole TH. Only the one side portion 32a and the other side portion 32b need to be deformed, and they will not separate from the liquid sealing portion 30A and the liquid sealing portion 30B, so it is possible to prevent the one side portion 32a or the other side portion 32b from falling into the liquid storage portion 10 and hindering the liquid feeding.

[0236] After moving the pressing member 361 to the lower limit position, the control unit 380 moves the pressing member 361 upward to the upper limit position above the liquid sealing cartridge 100. The lower limit position of the pressing member 361 is between the liquid sealing parts 30A and 30B and the inner bottom surface 61 of the liquid storage part 10.

[0237] As described above, in step S32 of pressing the center-side low-strength portion 31, the liquid sealing portion 30A and the liquid sealing portion 30B are pressed from above the liquid sealing portion 30A and the liquid sealing portion 30B to the position between the liquid sealing portion 30A and the liquid sealing portion 30B and the inner bottom surface 61 of the liquid storage portion 10 via the cover portion 40. Thus, the pressing can be stopped before the pressing member 361 contacts the inner bottom surface 61 of the liquid storage portion 10, so that the damage of the inner bottom surface 61 can be more reliably suppressed.

[0238] Above, such as Fig.30 As shown in FIG. 1 , the seals of the liquid seal 30A and the liquid seal 30B are released. That is, the liquid storage part 10 communicates with the air hole 115 and the flow path 135 .

[0239] if Fig.25 In step S13, the control unit 380 repeatedly performs the above unsealing operation to unseal the six liquid sealing parts 30A and the six liquid sealing parts 30B located in the radial direction of the chambers 121 to 126. Fig.25 In step S19, the control unit 380 opens the liquid sealing portion 30A and the liquid sealing portion 30B of the liquid storage unit 10 storing the R5 reagent.

[0240] Next, in step S33, the control unit 380 rotates the liquid sealing box 100 via the rotating mechanism 320, so that the liquid 90 in the liquid storage unit 10 flows to the flow path 20 via the pressed center side low strength portion 31. Fig.30As shown, by the rotation of the liquid sealing cartridge 100, the liquid 90 stored in the liquid storage section 10 flows toward the flow path 135. Thus, the reagent in the liquid storage section 10 moves to the corresponding chamber via the flow path 135.

[0241] The liquid delivery process was carried out as above.

[0242] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, chemiluminescence is light emitted by utilizing the energy of a chemical reaction, such as light released when a molecule is excited to an excited state due to a chemical reaction and returns to a ground state from an excited state. Chemiluminescence can be produced, for example, by a reaction between an enzyme and a substrate, by electrochemical stimulation of a labeled substance, based on the LOCI method (Luminescent Oxygen Channeling Immunoassay), or based on bioluminescence. In this embodiment, any chemiluminescence can be performed. It can be designed so that a substance that excites fluorescence after being irradiated with light of a certain wavelength combines with the substance to be tested to form a complex. At this time, a light source is configured to irradiate chamber 126 with light. The light detector detects fluorescence excited from a substance bound to the complex by light from the light source.

[0243] In addition, as magnetic particles MP, any particle can be used as long as it includes a material having magnetism as a substrate and is used for a conventional immunoassay. For example, magnetic particles using Fe2O3 and / or Fe3O4, cobalt, nickel, ferrite, magnetite, etc. as a substrate can be used. The magnetic particles can be coated with a binding substance that binds to the substance to be tested, or can be bound to the substance to be tested via a capturing substance that binds the magnetic particles to the substance to be tested. The capturing substance is an antigen or antibody that binds to the magnetic particles and the substance to be tested.

[0244] In addition, the capturing substance can be used as long as it specifically binds to the substance to be tested, without any special limitation. For example, the capturing substance and the substance to be tested are bound by an antigen-antibody reaction. More specifically, the capturing substance is an antibody, but when the substance to be tested is an antibody, the capturing substance can be an antigen of the antibody. In addition, when the substance to be tested is a nucleic acid, the capturing substance can be a nucleic acid complementary to the substance to be tested. The marker contained in the labeling substance can be, for example, an enzyme, a fluorescent substance, etc. Enzymes can be alkaline phosphatase (ALP), peroxidase, glucose oxidase, tyrosinase, acid phosphatase, etc. When chemiluminescence is electrochemiluminescence, the label can be a substance that emits light through electrochemical stimulation, without any special limitation, for example, a ruthenium complex can be listed. Fluorescent substances can use fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), green fluorescent protein (GFP), luciferin, etc.

[0245] In addition, when the label is an enzyme, the luminescent substrate for the enzyme can be appropriately selected from well-known luminescent substrates according to the enzyme used. For example, when alkaline phosphatase is used as the enzyme, the luminescent substrate that can be used is: CDP-Star (registered trademark), (4-chloro-3-(methoxyspiro[1,2-dioxetane-3,2'-(5'-chloro)tricyclo[3.3.1.13,7]decane]-4-yl)phenyl phosphate disodium), CSPD (registered trademark) (3-(4-methoxyspiro[1,2-dioxetane-3,2'-(5'-chloro)tricyclo[3.3.1.13,7]decane]-4-yl)phenyl phosphate disodium), Chemiluminescent substrates such as 4-nitrophenyl phosphate, 5-bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl phosphate (BCIP), 4-nitro blue tetrazolium chloride (NBT), iodonitrotetrazolium (INT) and other luminescent substrates; 4-methylumbelliferyl phosphate (4MUP) and other fluorescent substrates; 5-bromo-4-lv-3-indolyl phosphate (BCIP), 5-bromo-6-chloro-indolyl phosphate disodium, 4-nitrophenyl phosphate and other colorimetric substrates, etc.

[0246] In addition, all technical solutions of the embodiments disclosed this time are illustrative and not limiting. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than the description of the above embodiments, and further includes all changes within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0247] For instance, in the example of the above-mentioned embodiment, among the main body 50 and the pressing member 361, the main body 50 is moved so as to make the pressing position with respect to the liquid sealing part 30 correspond, but the following scheme may be adopted instead: the pressing member 361 is moved to immediately above the liquid sealing part 30 so as to make the pressing position correspond; and both the main body 50 and the pressing member 361 are moved so as to make the pressing positions correspond.

[0248] Explanation of symbols

[0249] 10: liquid storage part, 20: flow path, 30, 30A, 30B: liquid sealing part, 31: central side low strength part, 31-1: central side low strength part, 31-2: peripheral side low strength part, 32a: one side part, 32b: other side part, 33: peripheral part, 34: central part, 35a: pressure receiving surface, 36, 37: recessed part, 40: cover part, 50: main body part, 61: inner bottom surface, 90: liquid, 100: liquid sealing box, 145: flow path, 360: pressing part, 361: pressing member

Claims

1. A liquid sealed box, characterized in that include: A liquid storage part for storing liquid; a flow path for the liquid stored in the liquid storage portion to flow; A liquid sealing portion for sealing the liquid in the liquid storage portion; wherein the liquid sealing portion comprises an outer peripheral portion and a central low-strength portion on the central side relative to the outer peripheral portion, and when the liquid sealing portion is pressed toward the inside of the liquid storage portion, the central low-strength portion is broken, and in a state where the broken central low-strength portion does not contact the inner bottom surface of the liquid sealing box, the liquid in the liquid storage portion flows into the flow path; and The liquid sealing portion includes a side portion adjacent to one side of the central low-strength portion and another side portion adjacent to the other side of the central low-strength portion when viewed from the pressing direction. The one side portion and the other side portion are continuous from the outer peripheral portion of the liquid sealing portion to the central low-strength portion, and are deformed in the pressing direction by being pressed.

2. The liquid sealing box according to claim 1, characterized in that: The center-side low-strength portion is provided at a center portion of the liquid sealing portion.

3. The liquid-tight box according to claim 1, characterized in that: The center-side low-strength portion is broken by the pressing and is seated by at least one of the one side portion and the other side portion.

4. The liquid sealing box according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The center-side low-strength portion has a smaller thickness than an adjacent region.

5. The liquid sealing box according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The center low-strength portion has a planar shape of at least one of a linear shape, a rectangular shape, a cross shape, and an elliptical shape when viewed from the direction in which it is pressed.

6. The liquid-tight box according to claim 5, characterized in that: The central low-strength portion extends in the first direction at the central portion of the liquid sealing portion. The first direction is along a liquid feeding direction of the liquid passing through the liquid sealing portion.

7. The liquid sealing box according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The invention includes an outer peripheral low-strength portion which is formed on the outer peripheral portion and is different from the central portion.

8. The liquid-tight box according to claim 7, characterized in that: The center low-strength portion has lower strength than the outer peripheral low-strength portion.

9. The liquid sealed box according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: Also included is a cover portion opposite to the liquid sealing portion.

10. The liquid-tight box according to claim 9, characterized in that: The liquid sealing portion has a pressure receiving surface pressed via the cover portion; The center low-strength portion is composed of a recessed portion formed on the back side of the pressure-receiving surface.

11. The liquid sealing box according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The liquid sealing portion is provided on the upper side of the liquid storage portion. The length from the outer peripheral portion of the liquid sealing portion to the central low-strength portion is smaller than the depth from the liquid sealing portion to the inner bottom surface of the liquid storage portion.

12. The liquid sealed box according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: A disc-shaped main body portion is provided with the liquid storage portion, the flow path and the liquid sealing portion; The liquid storage portion is disposed on the center side of the main body portion with respect to the flow path, and the liquid in the liquid storage portion flows into the flow path by rotating the main body portion.

13. The liquid-tight box according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The liquid sealing portion is integrally provided with the liquid storage portion.

14. A liquid feeding method, which is a liquid feeding method of a liquid sealing box including a liquid storage part for storing liquid and a liquid sealing part for sealing the liquid storage part, characterized in that The steps include: A step of pressing the central low-strength portion of the liquid sealing portion toward the inside of the liquid storage portion to cause the liquid sealing portion to break along the central low-strength portion; A step of allowing the liquid to flow from the liquid storage portion where the central low-strength portion has been broken; in, The central low-strength portion does not contact the inner bottom surface of the liquid-tight box after being pressed and broken, and The liquid sealing portion includes a side portion adjacent to one side of the central low-strength portion and another side portion adjacent to the other side of the central low-strength portion when viewed from the pressing direction. The one side portion and the other side portion are continuous from the outer peripheral portion of the liquid sealing portion to the central low-strength portion, and are deformed in the pressing direction by being pressed.

15. The liquid delivery method according to claim 14, characterized in that: In the step of pressing the center-side low-strength portion, one side portion on one side and another side portion on the other side are deformed in a pressing direction with respect to the center-side low-strength portion.

16. The liquid delivery method according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that: The center-side low-strength portion has a smaller thickness than a region adjacent to the center-side low-strength portion.

17. The liquid delivery method according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that: In the step of pressing the center-side low-strength portion, the vicinity of the center portion of the liquid sealing portion is pressed by a pin-shaped pressing member via a cover portion facing the liquid sealing portion.

18. The liquid delivery method according to claim 17, characterized in that: The liquid sealing portion is arranged on the upper side of the liquid storage portion; In the step of pressing the center-side low-strength portion, the liquid sealing portion is pressed via the cover portion from above the liquid sealing portion to a position between the liquid sealing portion and an inner bottom surface of the liquid storage portion.

19. The liquid delivery method according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that: The liquid storage portion is arranged on the central side of the liquid sealing box relative to the flow path; In the step of causing the liquid to flow, the liquid sealing cartridge is rotated so that the liquid in the liquid storage portion flows toward the flow path via the pressed center-side low-strength portion.

20. The liquid delivery method according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that: The method further includes, before the step of pressing the center low-strength portion, moving at least one of the liquid storage portion, the main body portion forming the liquid sealing portion, and a pressing member pressing the liquid sealing portion so as to make the pressing positions on the liquid sealing portion correspond to each other.

21. The liquid delivery method according to claim 20, characterized in that: In the step of causing the pressing position to correspond, the pressing position of the pressing member with respect to the center-side low-strength portion is caused to correspond by moving the main body portion.

Images